# David W. McDonald

> professor of human centered design

**Wikidata**: [Q59767347](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q59767347)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/david-w-mcdonald

## Summary
David W. McDonald is an American professor of human-centered design and computer scientist, specializing in human-computer interaction, information science, and informatics. He is best known for his academic contributions at the University of Washington, where he has held multiple professorial roles since 2002, and for his research in human-centered design and engineering.

## Biography
- Born: 1964
- Nationality: American
- Education:
  - Ph.D. in Information and Computer Science, University of California, Irvine (2000)
  - M.S. in Information and Computer Science, University of California, Irvine (1995)
  - M.S. in Mathematics and Computer Science, California State University, East Bay (1992)
  - B.A. in Cognitive Science, University of California, Los Angeles (1988)
- Known for: Research in human-centered design, human-computer interaction, and information science
- Employer(s):
  - University of Washington (2002–present)
  - Intel (visiting faculty, 2006)
- Field(s): Human-centered design, computer science, information science, informatics

## Contributions
David W. McDonald has made significant contributions to the fields of human-centered design and human-computer interaction. His academic career has focused on the intersection of technology and human needs, particularly in how computational systems can be designed to better serve users. He has published extensively in areas such as information retrieval, user interface design, and collaborative systems. His work at the University of Washington has influenced both academic research and industry practices, particularly in the design of user-friendly technologies. McDonald has also mentored numerous doctoral students, including Amanda Menking and Abbas Ganji, who have gone on to contribute to the field in their own right.

## FAQs
### Q: What is David W. McDonald's primary field of expertise?
A: David W. McDonald is a professor of human-centered design, with expertise in human-computer interaction, information science, and computer science.

### Q: Where does David W. McDonald currently work?
A: He is a professor at the University of Washington, specifically in the Department of Human Centered Design and Engineering.

### Q: What degrees does David W. McDonald hold?
A: He holds a Ph.D. and M.S. in Information and Computer Science from the University of California, Irvine, an M.S. in Mathematics and Computer Science from California State University, East Bay, and a B.A. in Cognitive Science from the University of California, Los Angeles.

### Q: Has David W. McDonald worked in industry?
A: Yes, he was a visiting faculty member at Intel in 2006.

### Q: What is David W. McDonald's research focus?
A: His research focuses on human-centered design, human-computer interaction, and the development of computational systems that better serve user needs.

## Why They Matter
David W. McDonald's work has significantly advanced the field of human-centered design by bridging the gap between technical systems and human usability. His research has influenced how technology is designed to be more intuitive and accessible, impacting both academic research and industry practices. As a professor, he has shaped the next generation of designers and engineers, ensuring that human needs remain central to technological development. His contributions to information science and human-computer interaction have made him a key figure in these fields.

## Notable For
- Professor of Human Centered Design and Engineering at the University of Washington
- Research in human-computer interaction and information science
- Mentorship of doctoral students who have contributed to the field
- Visiting faculty role at Intel in 2006
- Extensive publications in human-centered design and related fields

## Body
### Academic Career
David W. McDonald began his academic career at the University of Washington in 2002 as an assistant professor in the Information School. He was promoted to associate professor in 2008 and later transitioned to the Department of Human Centered Design and Engineering, where he has been a professor since 2019. His research has consistently focused on the intersection of technology and human needs, particularly in the design of user-friendly systems.

### Education
McDonald's educational background includes a Ph.D. and M.S. in Information and Computer Science from the University of California, Irvine, an M.S. in Mathematics and Computer Science from California State University, East Bay, and a B.A. in Cognitive Science from the University of California, Los Angeles. This diverse academic foundation has informed his interdisciplinary approach to human-centered design.

### Industry Affiliation
In 2006, McDonald served as a visiting faculty member at Intel, where he contributed to the company's research and development efforts. This industry experience has enriched his academic work, providing practical insights into the challenges of designing technology for real-world use.

### Research and Publications
McDonald's research has resulted in numerous publications in the fields of human-computer interaction, information science, and human-centered design. His work has been influential in shaping how technology is designed to be more intuitive and accessible, with a focus on user needs and experiences.

### Mentorship
Throughout his career, McDonald has mentored several doctoral students, including Amanda Menking and Abbas Ganji. His guidance has helped these students make their own contributions to the field, extending his impact beyond his own research.

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## References

1. IdRef
2. [Source](https://www.hcde.washington.edu/mcdonald)
3. Czech National Authority Database
4. [ORCID Public Data File 2023](https://pub.orcid.org/v3.0/0000-0001-5882-828X/employment/10345644)
5. [ORCID Public Data File 2023](https://pub.orcid.org/v3.0/0000-0001-5882-828X/employment/10345630)
6. [ORCID Public Data File 2023](https://pub.orcid.org/v3.0/0000-0001-5882-828X/employment/10345660)
7. [ORCID Public Data File 2023](https://pub.orcid.org/v3.0/0000-0001-5882-828X/employment/10345711)
8. [ORCID Public Data File 2023](https://pub.orcid.org/v3.0/0000-0001-5882-828X/employment/10345765)
9. [ORCID Public Data File 2023](https://pub.orcid.org/v3.0/0000-0001-5882-828X/employment/10345775)
10. [Source](https://digital.lib.washington.edu/researchworks/bitstream/handle/1773/44838/Menking_washington_0250E_20649.pdf)
11. WorldCat
12. Virtual International Authority File
13. Personal Authority Wikibase of the Czech Republic
14. [Source](http://www.pensivepuffin.com/dwmcphd/McDonald-cv-Nov-2017.pdf)